Former Super Falcons star Gift Okunwa-Igunbor has backed Nigeria to comfortably progress from the group stage of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), declaring that Zambia are the only team capable of giving the Super Falcons a serious test in their quest for an unprecedented 11th continental title.
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As anticipation builds ahead of the tournament in Morocco, confidence remains high around the Super Falcons despite growing competition in women’s football across Africa.
While acknowledging the improvement of several African nations in recent years, Okunwa-Igunbor believes Nigeria still possess too much quality, experience and tournament pedigree to stumble in the opening round.
“Looking at the group, I believe Nigeria are clear favourites to qualify. The only team I see giving the Super Falcons a real challenge is Zambia because they have experienced players competing in Europe and America,” she said.
Zambia head into the competition boasting one of the strongest squads on the continent, led by global stars Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, whose exploits in the United States’ National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) have elevated the Copper Queens into genuine title contenders.
However, the former Nigerian international insists the Super Falcons still have the depth and quality needed to finish ahead of their rivals.
She also expressed confidence in the players selected by head coach Justin Madugu, dismissing concerns over the squad and insisting every player chosen has earned the right to wear the national colours.
“The players selected are equal to the task. They have what it takes to defend Nigeria’s title if they remain focused throughout the tournament,” she added.
Nigeria heads into the championship as Africa’s most successful women’s national team, having won a record 10 WAFCON titles, but faces increasing pressure from emerging forces including South Africa, Morocco and Zambia, all of whom have invested significantly in the women’s game over the past decade.
The Super Falcons are also targeting qualification for the next FIFA Women’s World Cup, making a strong performance in Morocco crucial for both continental pride and global ambitions.
For Okunwa-Igunbor, however, the equation is straightforward. Respect every opponent, overcome Zambia’s challenge, and Nigeria should have little difficulty booking a place in the knockout rounds before launching another serious assault on the African crown.
